Overheard at Road America

UPDATE #2 I would agree with Scott that the fans get the best value in all of racing when there is a doubleheader. Road America was a great example as the crowds were probably the biggest they have had in years. It's a very expensive proposition for a promoter to host two major series on a weekend. They have to be able to offset the costs with increases in ticket sales and sponsorship. It was evident at Road America this weekend that they did both. Steve Johnson, Champ Car President

08/12/07 In addition to what Champ Car's Paul Gentilozzi said below, ALMS President Scott Atherton told AutoRacing1.com, "If the measure of success is fan response, I think the crowds speak for themselves. Any time you put together two major racing series with their unique and shared sets of fans, both series benefit. These doubleheaders have enabled us to showcase our world class cars, teams and drivers with events that are unparalleled on the motorsports calendar. People and companies that have not been exposed to the American Le Mans Series come away not only with a better understanding of what our series is about but with a real appreciation for our exciting style of racing. The last several years have seen increases in all our major benchmarks, and the doubleheader concept is further accelerating that growth even more. It’s the classic case of one plus one equaling three."

08/11/07 The problem with the onboard starters on the new Champ Car is the small battery according to Paul Gentilozzi. "We are looking to add a more powerful battery but it will add 11 to 15 pounds to the car and we have to figure out where to remove that much weight elsewhere."…..He also stated that Champ Car will be back at Road America next year without question as a result of the huge success this weekend.